Concrete renovation to original strength, structural integrity and aesthetics

Concrete. The most widely used building material in the world. Even the Romans already used concrete in their constructions. Admittedly in a different recipe and without reinforcing steel, but the roof of the Pantheon in Rome - partly made of Roman concrete - can still be admired. After the invention of Portland cement in 1824, concrete was rediscovered, and from 1900 onwards, more and more building components were constructed in reinforced concrete. Moreover, the properties of concrete were optimized through research and development, resulting in better applications, higher mechanical strength and chemical resistance as well as new materials of concrete. Meanwhile, (reinforced) concrete has become an integral part of the global building culture.

Serious damage to concrete structures can usually be properly repaired after conducting a thorough investigation. Photo: Concrete damage due to carbonation

For a while there was a feeling that concrete is a building material that has unlimited possibilities and from which no problems are to be expected. Yet when we look closely at the many concrete structures in our environment, we see that very few have remained perfectly intact. Today, we know that many problems can arise from improper design, improper construction and/or change of use. Damage mechanisms such as carbonation-initiated reinforcement corrosion and chloride-initiated reinforcement corrosion are commonplace. External influences such as acids, alkalis and, for example, fire, can also cause serious damage to concrete structures. These damages can usually be properly repaired after carrying out a thorough examination.

Concrete damage from chloride attack.

Innovation Power

Under the name Master Builder Solutions, BASF has brought together over 100 years of knowledge and experience in construction chemistry and developed numerous chemical product solutions over the years. These are used for construction, maintenance, repair, protection and renovation of concrete structures, to original strength, structural integrity and aesthetics. John Goutziers, account manager Western Netherlands at BASF Master Builders says: "BASF offers excellent solutions and reliable products in the concrete industry that increase the efficiency of concrete productions all over the world. Innovation is the key to success, we know. Our chemical specialists are always coming up with new products and solutions that guarantee exceptional quality and profitability for manufacturers of precast, ready-mix, site-mix concrete and of concrete products."

Concrete repair mortars with exceptional properties

Goutziers indicates that the versatile product systems and Master Builders Solutions BASF specialists in stand for high-quality customized concrete repair with lasting results. "By first diagnosing the cause of the concrete deterioration, we can then lay out a clear repair strategy. In doing so, choosing the right products is crucial to ensure long-term structural stability and protection."

The MasterEmaco range consists of primers, repair mortars and leveling mortars for non-structural concrete repairs, leveling mortars, primers and repair mortars for structural concrete repairs. "All repair mortars and leveling mortars have exceptional properties such as high bond strengths and excellent protection against penetration of harmful substances. The repair mortars have low shrinkage and exceptional tensile strength that limit cracking. They meet the requirements of CUR Recommendation 118 and behavior regarding fire according to DIN 4102 Part I (05/98). MasterEmaco's easy-to-process leveling and repair mortars match the properties of the existing concrete as closely as possible, thus ensuring good compatibility. Moreover, they can be applied at low temperatures and even at freezing temperatures, which not only extends the construction season, but also allows concrete repair to be carried out overnight." Master Builders Solutions will soon start concrete renovation on the Nederrijnbrug in Arnhem. "But more on that in a later edition," Goutziers concludes.